Noche En La Ciudad

The song 'Noche En La Ciudad' by Los Prisioneros, a Chilean rock band known for their politically charged lyrics and social commentary, presents a satirical take on societal norms and the concept of a 'perfect' community. The lyrics paint a picture of an idealized city where order and morality are paramount, and where everyone conforms to a strict set of behaviors deemed acceptable. The repeated phrases 'Orden, moral, orden' (Order, moral, order) and 'Noche en la ciudad' (Night in the city) emphasize the rigidity and monotony of this controlled environment.

The song's verses describe a place where 'honorable men without vices' and 'chaste and pious women' are the norm, suggesting a critique of conservative values that suppress individuality and freedom. The mention of 'sin drogadictos ni alcohol' (without drug addicts or alcohol) and the disdain for 'los inmorales' (the immoral ones) further illustrate the exclusion of those who do not fit the mold. The chorus, with its simple melody and repetitive structure, reinforces the idea of a mundane routine where everyone 'rests' at night and 'works' in the morning, highlighting the lack of spontaneity and creativity in such a society.

However, the song's tone shifts towards the end, revealing the narrator's true feelings about this 'ideal' city. The line 'Que no puedo aguantar las ganas / De vomitar' (That I can't hold back the urge / To vomit) is a powerful expression of disgust towards the artificiality and hypocrisy of the societal standards being described. Los Prisioneros use this song to challenge the listener to question the value of conformity and the cost of maintaining a facade of perfection at the expense of diversity and authenticity.